Recovery From a Discectomy

A herniated or otherwise damaged disc in your spine places pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to such symptoms as pain, as well as difficulty walking and/or standing. A discectomy -- also known as a diskectomy -- is a special surgery during which a surgeon removes the part of the disc causing your symptoms. If your doctor believes that you may benefit from a discectomy, he will tell you what to expect during the procedure. However, taking care of yourself after the surgery and recovering are just as important.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription or over-the-counter pain medications
• Walking shoes
• Walking clothes

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Instructions

• 1

  Take either prescription or over-the counter medications, as directed by your doctor, to control your pain after surgery.

• 2

  Avoid lifting anything that weighs over 10 pounds until 4 weeks after your surgery. A good rule of thumb is to avoid lifting anything heavier than a gallon of milk.

• 3

  Walk as soon as you feel able, as early as when you return home. Walk on a daily basis or as often as your doctor recommends, as you heal from your discectomy surgery.

• 4

  Avoid all exposure to cigarette smoke, even secondhand smoke. If you are a smoker, consider quitting the habit, at least for the 4 to 6 months post surgery. Smoking exposure can delay your healing process.

• 5

  Protect the incision site by avoiding a tub bath for 2 weeks. Resume showering 5 days post discectomy.

• 6

  Return to normal sexual activity around 1 week after your surgery, if you feel able.

• 7

  Resume work in 2 to 8 weeks if applicable, depending on how physically demanding your job is. Your doctor will inform you when it is safe to return to work.

• 8

  Notify your doctor immediately if you experience certain symptoms, including difficulty breathing or chest pain; a fever above 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit; difficulty urinating or lack of bowel or bladder control; and/or increased redness, pain or swelling of your incision site.